Scripture Text: Judges 1:1-36
After the death of Joshua, the people of Israel inquired of the Lord, “Who shall go up first for us against the Canaanites, to fight against them?” The Lord said, “Judah shall go up; behold, I have given the land into his hand.” And Judah said to Simeon his brother, “Come up with me into the territory allotted to me, that we may fight against the Canaanites. And I likewise will go with you into the territory allotted to you.” So Simeon went with him.
Judges 1:1-3
After Joshua's death, what's next? The Lord continued to use the Israelites' leadership (elders) to conquest the remaining unconquered land. Those leaders were molded by God under Joshua's term that's why they continued to value God's heritage made to Joshua. Each tribe was helping each other to get their allotted land from the inhabitants. And the Lord allowed them to conquer the land completely.
However, the tribes of Israel spared the lives of some inhabitants who lived in their allotted land (vv. 21, 27-36). Per God's original instruction to Moses and Joshua, all the inhabitants who lived in Canaan should be liquidated. But they neglected to obey the instructions of God. Some inhabitants were made as their servants and they lived together with them. Some Israelite men intermarried with the gentile women and the worse scenario was, they worshiped their idols. That's why in the next chapter, the Lord gave them a great challenge especially to those generations who did not acknowledge the goodness, miracles, and sacrifices done by God for them.
In our modern time, many people are neglecting the goodness and sacrifices of our Lord Jesus Christ, that's why until now they still live and conform in the darkened world. Apostle Paul reminded all the believers-followers of Christ regarding this matter because this world continued to influence people to divert their attention into the world system instead of focusing on God.
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:2
Therefore, since we are all under Jesus' covenant, we must continue to rely, depend, and trust on Him. We must continue to focus our lives only to God through Him. We must continue to strengthen our faith through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. No compromises, no other gods or idols that cause sins or disgrace, disrespect, dishonor to our Lord. And the best thing that we can do is to always glorify His name forever! So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31).
Reflect
Do you want to glorify Jesus Christ and be blessed by His presence forever? Do His will!
Remember
Neglecting to ask God always and apart from His will leads to disaster!
Read
Romans 12:1-2; 1Corinthians 10:31; John 15:5-8
Pray
Dear God, thank You for teaching me to obey Your words and instructions. To obey is a blessing, and to disobey You is a curse. You teach me to obey You because of love, and blessings are only secondary to my obedience. Help me to carry on. In Your name, Jesus. Amen.
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